'Concerned' Strictly bosses fear celebrity 'boycott' over Giovanni Pernice

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Giovanni Pernice was paired with Amanda Abbington on 2023
Giovanni Pernice was paired with Amanda Abbington on 2023's Strictly (Image: Getty)

Strictly Come Dancing bosses are said to be “concerned” about the , sending the show into “crisis” mode.

In recent days, it’s been reported that 33-year-old Giovanni’s latest celebrity partner, Amanda Abbington, sought legal advice to demand backstage footage of their rehearsals. Amanda, 51, revealed that she has been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) since quitting the popular BBC ballroom show last October over "personal reasons”. Sources say the broadcaster has since received a request from Amanda for videos of herself and Giovanni in the rehearsal room. The Italian dancer is yet to address stories surrounding the ongoing issues he allegedly faced with Amanda.

It’s now been claimed that show bosses are “fearful” future famous contestants won't want to be partnered with Giovanni. Reporting that Strictly is in “crisis” mode, quoted a source who told the outlet: “The fallout between Giovanni and Amanda is causing much concern. Celebrity contestants usually don't mind which partner they are coupled up with as they're just happy to be on the show. But Giovanni's reputation has taken a further hit following Amanda's experience and they don't want to be in a position where new contestants may threaten to quit if they're paired with him.”

'Concerned' Strictly bosses fear celebrity 'boycott' over Giovanni Pernice dqxikeidqkikdinvStrictly Come Dancing bosses are said to be “concerned” about the drama engulfing Giovanni

Following her shock decision to quit the show, Amanda publicly shared that “personal reasons” were behind her departure but didn’t elaborate further. After her exit, the actress wrote: "It is with deepest regret that I had to leave Strictly. I did not come to this decision easily or lightly but for personal reasons, I am unable to continue. It was an absolute joy working with my fellow contestants, they are a beautiful, hardworking and talented group of people who I love and who I will miss seeing every Friday and Saturday and competing alongside."

She added: "I want to thank the incredible production team and everyone on Strictly who looked after me and who are so kind and caring. It’s a wonderful bunch of people and I’ll miss all of them. I’m so sad that I am unable to go any further. Thank you to everyone who voted and who sent wonderful messages and inspiring support. You are all amazing. Truly. Thank you.”

EastEnders' Jake Wood's snap of son has fans pointing out the pair's likenessEastEnders' Jake Wood's snap of son has fans pointing out the pair's likeness

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It has also been reported by that Amanda wasn't the only person to talk about “how hard it was” being paired with Giovanni. They claimed bosses spoke to the ballroom star after Amanda asked for cameras to be installed in the rehearsal room.

Giovanni joined the series in 2015 and holds the record for earning the most number of perfect 10s in its history - a staggering 98 over eight series. He tasted success in 2022, becoming champion for the first time alongside former star Rose Ayling-Ellis.

A BBC spokesperson declined to comment when approached by Mirror Online.

Aisha Nozari

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